Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce
How long will this process take?
If your matter does not involve children, Michigan has a two month waiting period from the time your complaint for divorce is filed until the matter can be resolved. Your matter may take longer than that for sure depending on the complexity of your case and the assets you are seeking to divide. If your matter involves children, Michigan has a six month waiting period and again it may take longer than that depending on whether or not you and your current spouse can agree on custody, support and parenting time issues.
How will I support myself during the divorce process?
While your matter is pending, you and your spouse can agree on the payment of expenses until you come to a final and binding resolution of your matter that will result in a Judgment of Divorce. If you cannot agree, then it may become necessary to negotiate this with your current spouse or his or her attorney. If negotiations cannot reach a resolution, the judge handling your case can decide on how marital expenses, including support for a spouse and minor children, will be handled on a temporary and modifiable basis.
Testimonial
"I retained David Potts in 2000 as my divorce attorney. He and his legal assistant expertly and professionally guided me through this difficult period in my life and have continued to advise me on post-judgment matters. I would not think of sending any friends or colleagues to anyone else for their domestic relations problems; and I have sent several friends and colleagues to him."
- Dr. Steven Katzman, Farmington Hills
Testimonial
"During my divorce, David was a master strategist. As time progressed it became apparent that he was always a step or two ahead of opposing counsel. The division of assets was made difficult by the complexity of our investments, including a family owned business. David's experience in corporate law was invaluable. He was comfortable with both the local divorce court and the appellate court. The outcome after my appeal led to a new precedent in law and has been widely referenced throughout the state. It helped immensely that David and his assistant, Judy Downing, were always at hand to explain issues and provide reassurance and empathy."
- Sharon Johnson, Ann Arbor
How much will this cost me in attorney fees?
This is a question I answer in our initial consultation. This is a very important aspect of any divorce case and I am sensitive to your concerns about the cost of a divorce and how the current economy will impact you. However, I will give you a fair estimate of the costs associated with your case and will make arrangements with you concerning a retainer fee, in writing, that will be required before starting your divorce case.
What will happen to my home if I move out?
This is difficult to answer in the initial consultation as the marital home is often times one of the largest assets held by the two parties. At our meeting, I will give you several options concerning the home, including the payment of the mortgage and possible sale of the home.
Is everything we discuss in the initial consultation confidential?
Absolutely. Even though I do not charge for my initial consultations, I still have an attorney-client relationship with you and cannot reveal any of your information. Therefore, the worst thing that you can get from meeting with my team is a bad cup of coffee!
What do I need to bring with me to our first meeting?
When you contact my office, either through my website or in person, my staff will give you specific direction as to what we may need to take a look at during our initial conference and how to get to our office. You can also get Google Maps directions to our office on the Contact Us portion of this website. Contact me today for an initial office conference at (248) 258-1438